Improve Your Body Language With These 18 Tips

Crossing your arms or legs can be okay, but be aware of how you're doing it. Cross your legs towards your partner. Crossing a leg with your ankle on your knee suggests arrogance. And don't hold your drink on the table with your opposite hand.

Make Eye Contact

But not too much; it can be creepy!

Smile/Laugh

People like happy people. Smile when appropriate, and laugh when they say something funny. Beware of laughing at the end of your own sentences (even if you think you're funny) - it indicates a lack of confidence.

Shoulders

Keep your shoulders down and back. Your chiropractor will thank you.

Slouching

Don't slouch, but don't sit too straight either!

Clutching

It's easy to clutch your drink to your chest, but putting something between you and your partner makes you seem guarded. Best to keep it down low and to the side.

Nodding

Agreement is good, but don't bob your head or nod for the sake of nodding.

Face Your Partner

Angling your body away from your partner might mean you don't want to be there.

Lean In

This indicates enthusiasm, but don't lean in so closely your partner thinks you're trying for a kiss (especially if it's a job interview)!

Fidgeting

Don't do it! It makes your partner uneasy, and is a sign of anxiety. Beware of playing with earrings, bottle caps, straws, pens, peeling labels, wiggling your foot or knee, touching your face, and running your hands through your hair.

Head Position

Keep your head straight and chin down. Tilting your head indicates submissiveness (and it's bad for your neck).

Matching Handshake

An overly firm handshake can be just as bad as a limp one. Try to match your partner, aiming for a firm comfortable grip.

Hands

A good place for your hands is clasped behind your back, indicating confidence. In your pockets is okay, but possibly indicative of boredom or over-confidence. Use hands to illustrate and emphasize points, but not too flamboyantly. No arm flapping; from the elbows down is good.

Don't Put Anything Between You

Although you might think sitting across a table from your partner makes sense, it reduces the engagement-factor. Sitting at 45 degrees is good, and still allows for personal space and mirroring.

Relax

Now that you're probably hyper-aware of your body language, take a deep breath and let it flow. With a little bit of conscious practice these techniques will become natural.

Remember: These are just guidelines. Although crossing your arms could mean a communication blockage, it might also be for comfort or warmth. Cultural practices are also relevant; people have different views on personal space and eye contact for example. Remain aware and sensitive to your surroundings, and you'll do fine.